Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner from mundane to magnificent with this mouthwatering Tex-Mex Chicken Quinoa Skillet Dinner! Imagine a one-pan wonder that combines protein-packed quinoa, tender chicken, and a vibrant medley of southwestern flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Texas. In just 45 minutes, you'll create a nutritious, restaurant-worthy meal that's so delicious, your family will be begging for seconds – and it's easier to make than you might think!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under cold water to remove any bitter coating.
- In a large skillet with high sides, combine rinsed quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- While quinoa is cooking, dice chicken breast into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Remove quinoa from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
- Add diced chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden brown and no longer pink in the center.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning over chicken and stir to coat evenly, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to bloom the spices.
- Add diced bell pepper, black beans, and corn to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender.
- Return cooked quinoa to the skillet and gently mix all ingredients together, ensuring everything is well combined and heated through.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes to allow cheese to melt.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving hot.
Tips
- Rinse Your Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove the natural coating called saponin, which can make it taste bitter. Use a fine-mesh strainer for best results.
- Prep Like a Pro: Dice your chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking and consistent flavor in every bite.
- Bloom Those Spices: When adding taco seasoning, cook it for a minute or two to release its full flavor potential. This technique intensifies the overall taste of the dish.
- Cheese Melting Hack: For perfectly melted cheese, cover the skillet after sprinkling the cheese and let it sit for 2-3 minutes off the heat. This creates a beautiful, gooey topping.
- Fresh Garnish is Key: Don't skip the fresh cilantro! It adds a bright, fresh finish that elevates the entire dish and provides a beautiful pop of color.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to customize with additional toppings like diced avocado, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime for extra zest.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg
